Crockpot Recipes for Weeknights
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy effortless cooking with these delicious crockpot recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe is designed for those who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple and convenient for busy weeknights
- Nutritious and hearty meals with minimal effort
- Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers
Effortless Weeknight Dinners
After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where crockpot meals shine! With minimal prep time, you can throw everything into the crockpot in the morning and come home to a warm, flavorful meal waiting for you. This is not only convenient but also allows you to spend your evenings relaxing instead of cooking.
Crockpot recipes are designed to be hands-off. You can enjoy a delicious meal without the need for constant attention. Simply set it and forget it! This means you can run errands, help with homework, or even squeeze in a workout while your dinner cooks to perfection.
Healthy and Wholesome Ingredients
One of the best aspects of using a crockpot is the opportunity to create nutritious meals with wholesome ingredients. This chicken dish features lean protein, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a balanced option for your family. The slow cooking process helps to retain the nutrients in the food while intensifying the flavors, resulting in a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the overall nutritional value of your dish. Carrots, onions, and garlic provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken adds protein, making this meal both satisfying and good for you.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Crockpot recipes are fantastic for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for lunch the next day or freeze portions for a quick meal later on. This makes it an ideal choice for busy families or individuals looking to save time without compromising on quality. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Additionally, the flavors of crockpot meals often improve after sitting for a day, making leftovers even more delicious. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to serve the chicken with rice, pasta, or even on a salad. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you won’t get bored with your meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots.
Add to Crockpot
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix well. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal cleanup!
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your crockpot meals. After your meal, allow the leftovers to cool down before transferring them into airtight containers. This will help prevent moisture buildup and keep your food safe from bacteria. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
When freezing, be sure to label your containers with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of what you have on hand and ensure you consume them within a reasonable timeframe. For best results, thaw frozen meals in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This savory chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. You can also toss it into a fresh salad or wrap it in a tortilla for a delicious lunch option.
For added flavor, consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the taste, giving it a rich, savory finish. Experiment with your favorite sides to create a well-rounded meal that both you and your family will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to extend the cooking time.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
→ Can I make this dish in an instant pot?
Yes, you can use the sauté function to brown the chicken, then pressure cook it for about 15 minutes.
Crockpot Recipes for Weeknights
Enjoy effortless cooking with these delicious crockpot recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Phoebe Drake
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots.
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix well. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g